AAA warns of ‘hypermiling’ dangers

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Published: July 3, 2008

You’ve got the green light to stretch your pricey gallons of gas, check your tire pressure or change your oil. But some drivers are going full speed ahead with a few more tricks AAA says everyone should stop.

“Hypermiling isn’t new, it’s just saving fuel economy,“ explains Gary Baber with First Team Auto in Roanoke.

But what is new is record high gas prices. So much so, AAA a released a warning against “hypermiling,“ which is trying to exceed estimated fuel efficiency by using dangerous and damaging fuel saving techniques. One involved actually cutting off your engine to coast down the road. It’s a bad idea for your car and you.

“You’re losing your brakes, your power brakes. You’re losing your power steering and those things would be extremely dangerous,“ Baber explains. 

And, the oil you put in your car, don’t skimp and use a lower grade in an attempt to get more miles. “You would always want to stick with the manufacturers recommendation. That way you stick within the warranty guidelines.“

Then, you know the importance of keeping air in your tires but too much is just that. “Over inflated will cause your tires to wear on the middle surface, not getting full use of the tread which again a little bit of a safety issue but you end up wearing out your tires prematurely and end up spending more money.“ 

Hypermiling tricks that may make you feel like you’re saving in the short term but will cost you more down the road. in roanoke.

Things you can do to safely increase your mileage are to inflate your tire to the proper level, have your oil changed regularly, get a tune up and if you have a lead foot, let up.